Which test result is commonly associated with optic neuritis?

Which test result is commonly associated with optic neuritis?

• A. Elevated intraocular pressure
• B. Normal electroretinogram
• C. Retinal hemorrhages
• D. Visual acuity improvement with age

Answer: (B)

Optic neuritis primarily affects the optic nerve, not the retina. The electroretinogram measures the retina’s electrical responses to light, so when the problem lies in the optic nerve, the retinal cells themselves are usually functioning normally. That is why the ERG tends to be normal in optic neuritis. This normal retinal function helps distinguish optic nerve disease from retinal diseases, where the ERG would typically show abnormalities. Other options point to issues with the eye's pressure, retinal blood vessels, or age-related changes in vision, which are not characteristic findings of optic nerve inflammation.

Optic neuritis primarily affects the optic nerve, not the retina. The electroretinogram measures the retina’s electrical responses to light, so when the problem lies in the optic nerve, the retinal cells themselves are usually functioning normally. That is why the ERG tends to be normal in optic neuritis. This normal retinal function helps distinguish optic nerve disease from retinal diseases, where the ERG would typically show abnormalities. Other options point to issues with the eye's pressure, retinal blood vessels, or age-related changes in vision, which are not characteristic findings of optic nerve inflammation.